The funding, across the next four years, will be used deliver more visible patrols and stronger enforcement action through new CCTV, extra staff and improved partnership working.
This delivers on a commitment made by the Leader of Walsall Council, Councillor Mike Bird, to put the force back into enforcement.
“ In my Leader’s Report, I made a promise that enforcement action will ramp up in this borough.
“I am sick of fly-tipping and other aspects of anti-social behaviour in Walsall, and this investment proves we are not prepared to put up with it any longer.
“It is my priority to ensure our residents here in Walsall feel safe in the place we call home.
“Safe and attractive streets are vital for residents, businesses and investment. This is about making Walsall a place where people are proud to live, work and spend time. “
Councillor Mike Bird, Leader of Walsall Council
Key actions include:
£250,000 investment to expand CCTV coverage
Recruiting five new Community Protection Enforcement Officers
Rolling out the successful Project Phoenix visible security model borough-wide, with new funding for youth and community safety projects.
Creating a new Intelligence Post to improve information sharing between the public, partners and the council.
Establishing an Enforcement Fighting Fund to respond quickly to emerging issues.
Additional legal resource to take more offenders to court and resolve complex cases.
“ Fly-tipping is the scourge of our borough and anti-social behaviour negatively impacts the quality of our residents. This major investment sends a clear message – we will not tolerate those who blight our communities.
“By increasing visible patrols, expanding CCTV and giving our teams the tools and resources they need, we will take firm action to keep Walsall safe and clean.
“Councillor Adam Hicken, Portfolio Holder for Enforcement and Safe Communities
The additional enforcement activity will build on the council’s 16,000 annual interventions, which include inspections, patrols, warnings, fixed penalty notices and prosecutions.